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Abstract

A vascular filter is provided that includes a tubular member having proximal and distal ends, and a guidewire lumen. An expandable frame is attached to the tubular member capable of assuming collapsed and enlarged conditions, and filter material is attached to the frame, the filter material having an open proximal end when the frame assumes its enlarged condition. An apparatus for recovering a vascular filter from a blood vessel is also provided that includes a sheath and a retrieval member deployable from the sheath. The retrieval member includes a connector on its distal end for securing the tubular member, such as an expandable member within a recess for receiving the tubular member. The vascular filter may be constrained in its collapsed condition in a sheath, and the tubular member advanced over a guidewire to a location downstream of a treatment site. The, vascular filter is deployed and expanded to its enlarged condition across the blood vessel, the guidewire remaining in place. A procedure is performed at the treatment site, the vascular filter capturing released emboli. The retrieval device is advanced over the guidewire, the vascular filter is secured to the retrieval member, and the vascular filter and retrieval device are withdrawn from the blood vessel.

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First Claim